Doctor, Specialist - Biology Encyclopedia - body, examples, human, system, different, organs, life, hormone, used, specific Doctor, Specialist - Biology Encyclopedia Doctor, Specialist Photo by: CandyBox Images A medical specialist focuses on diagnosis and treatment of a particular organ or body system, a specific patient population, or a particular procedure. Medical care of humans is a complicated task due to the many different organ systems that comprise the human body. Each stage of life presents a variety of health issues that need to be addressed as well. Moreover, males and females also have very different medical needs through puberty and adulthood. This complexity of life necessitates a high degree of specialization in the physicians that care for people's medical needs. There are many types of medical specialties. General Educational Requirements for Medical Specialists All physicians, regardless of their ultimate specialization, must obtain a bachelor's degree from an undergraduate college and graduate from medical school (four years). During the last two years of medical school, students perform clinical rotations in which they are exposed to a wide variety of medical specialties. This provides broad training for all medical professionals, as well as gives the students an opportunity to choose a specialty. After medical school, all physicians are required to do a residency.

The purpose of the residency is to provide specific, detailed training in the chosen specialty. The length of the residency is determined by the specialty. The tables on page 231 include the average residency length for each of the specialties listed. Oftentimes, physicians will have a particular expertise within their specialized area. For example, most surgeons are subspecialized in the organ system on which they operate (neurosurgeons, cardiac surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons are examples). These subspecialties are obtained during a fellowship period that lasts one to two years after the residency is completed. It is not uncommon for a highly specialized doctor (such as a pediatric neurosurgeon) to invest ten years or more in his or her medical education after graduating from college. Job Duties and Educational Requirements for Sample Specialties Cardiologist. A cardiologist is a physician who cares for people with heart disease. Cardiologists treat conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) and angina (chest pain). They use diagnostic tools such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) and ultrasound to visualize the electrical and structural functioning of the heart. Cardiologists are employed by hospitals but also work in private practice.

Since cardiology is considered a subspecialty of internal medicine, cardiologists must first complete a residency in internal medicine that lasts about three years after medical school. Cardiologists then complete a subspecialty residency in cardiology (another three years). Neurologist. A neurologist is a physician who treats patients with neurological disorders (involving the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system). Conditions that would necessitate treatment by a neurologist include, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Alzheimer's A surgeon reviewing CAT scans. disease, traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, epilepsy, or stroke. Diagnostic techniques used by neurologists to detect these disorders include (but are not limited to) sensory and motor skills assessments, memory tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and positron emission tomography (PET). To treat these types of disorders, neurologists may prescribe medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or surgery. There are several new and very effective surgical treatments for diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Neurologists must complete at least four years of residency in an accredited neurology program before being eligible for certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN). An OB/GYN specializes in the care of women from puberty through pregnancy and menopause. An obstetrician focuses on the care of pregnant women and the delivery of babies. Although some doctors choose to specialize in either obstetrics or gynecology, it is very common for a physician to specialize in both since the two fields are so closely linked. In addition to delivering babies, OB/GYNs perform diagnostic tests such as pelvic exams (to look for ovarian cysts and other abnormalities), pap smears (to screen for cervical cancer), and obstetrical ultrasound (to assess the development of a fetus). After medical school, OB/GYNs must complete a four-year residency. Many OB/GYNs practice their specialty in private practices that are closely affiliated with hospitals in which they deliver babies. However, most hospitals employ OB/GYNs directly as well. Oncologist. An oncologist cares for patients with cancer. Cancer is a very complex disease that demands very specialized attention and intensive treatment. It is common for an oncologist to specialize in a particular type of cancer, such as lung or colon cancer.

Oncologists may work in private practices that are closely affiliated with a particular hospital or may be directly employed by a hospital. Like cardiology, oncology is considered a subspecialty of internal medicine. Oncologists must first complete a residency in internal medicine that lasts about three years after medical school. They then must complete a subspecialty residency in oncology (another three years). Doctors who have expertise in a particular disease/condition Specialist Types of Doctors - Botsford Hospital Types of Doctors What type of doctors are you looking for? What does D.O. mean? A doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) is a fully licensed medical doctor offering all the techniques and treatments of modern medicine with the added benefits of hands-on diagnostics and a holistic philosophy. The "hands-on" medical treatment is based on an in-depth understanding of how all of the body's systems are connected. Botsford offers residency and fellowship programs to train future doctors. We are a teaching site of MSU's College of Osteopathic Medicine. What does M.D. mean? A doctor of allopathic medicine (M.D.) is a fully licensed medical doctor offering all the techniques and treatments of modern medicine.

The method of treating disease is by the use of agents (medicines) that produce effects different from those the disease produced. What does D.P.M. mean? A doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle disorders, diseases and injuries. After completing four years of podiatric medical training, graduates select a Podiatric Medicine & Surgery Residency, like the 36-month residency offered at Botsford. Specialists Anesthesiologist - administers drugs and monitors patient condition during surgery; also provides pain management for acute and chronic conditions. Cardiologist, Interventional Cardiologist, Cardiac Electrophysiologist - a cardiologist specializes in diseases of the heart and blood vessels; an interventional cardiologists uses guided imaging to diagnose and treat those diseases; a cardiac electrophysiologist specializes in treating irregular heart rhythms caused by electrical problems in the heart. Cardiovascular Surgeon, Cardiothoracic Surgeon - a cardiovascular surgeon specializes in the surgical management of blood vessels and heart disorders; a cardiothoracic surgeon specializes in pathological conditions within the chest.

Emergency medicine - physicians who care for patients with acute illnesses or injuries which require immediate medical attention; they diagnose a variety of illnesses and undertake acute interventions to stabilize the patient. Endocrinologist - diagnoses and treats diabetes, hormone imbalances, thyroid disease and other disorders of the endocrine system. Family medicine - provides continuing, comprehensive health care for the individual and family. Encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system, and every disease entity; a family physician's care is based on knowledge of the patient in the context of the family and the community, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. Gastroenterologist - specializes in diseases of the digestive system. Geriatrician (Geriatric Medicine) - general practice physician who specializes in caring for older adults. Hematologist - a hematologist specializes in diseases of the blood and bone marrow. Hepatologist - specializes in diseases of the liver. Hospitalist - internal medicine physician whose practice is limited to hospital inpatients. Intensivist - hospital-based critical care medicine specialist who treats patients in intensive care settings. Internal medicine - provides diagnosis, management and nonsurgical treatment of unusual or serious diseases. Medical Geneticist - provides testing, counseling and therapy for genetic diseases.

Medical Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist - a medical oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancers and tumors; a radiation oncologist specializes in the application of radiation to manage disease. Neonatologist - cares for premature and critically ill newborns. Nephrologist - specializes in diseases of the kidneys. Neurologist, Neurosurgeon - a neurologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of disease and functions of the brain, spine, peripheral nerves, muscles and nervous systems; a neurosurgeon provides surgical management of those disorders. Neurophysiologist - a neurologist who diagnoses disorders of the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems through clinical evaluations and electrophysiologic testing. Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Urogynecologist - an obstetrician/gynecologist specializes in the medical and surgical care of the female reproductive system and its associated disorders; a urogynecologist specializes in female urological problems. Opthalmologist, Optometrist - an ophthalmologist provides comprehensive eye and vision care, including to medically or surgically treat eye disorders; an optometrist specializes in diagnosing diseases of the eye and correcting vision.

Orthopedic Surgeon - also known as an orthopod, an orthopedist is a surgeon who treats diseases, disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Otolaryngologist - the technical name for an ear, nose and throat physician. Pathologist - usually works behind the scenes to diagnose diseases by studying tissues, body fluids and organs. Pediatrician - a child's physician who provides preventive health maintenance for healthy children and medical care for children who are acutely or chronically ill; pediatricians manage the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their patients, in every stage of development - in good health or in illness. Perinatologist - specializes in caring for high-risk pregnancies. Physiatrist - specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Podiatrist - specialist that treats both medical and surgical deformities of the foot and ankle. Pulmonologist - specializes in lung disease. Radiologist, Interventional Radiologist - radiologists perform and interpret imaging tests; interventional radiologists also perform minimally invasive procedures, such as embolization, thrombolysis and biopsies, using imaging guidance. Rheumatologist - specializes in arthritis and diseases of the joints, as well as autoimmune disorders, such as lupus.

Sleep doctors - diagnoses and treats sleep disorders, and also may have expertise in behavioral and cognitive methods to prevent them. Cardiology and Heart Health Cardiology and Heart Health cardiologists.jpg Dr. Matthew Sorrentino, from the Cardiology Clinic at the University of Chicago Medical Center, during a routine visit with longtime patient, Mr. Edward McGhee. Dr. Sorrentino is checking routine vital statistics, and discussing in detail with Mr McGhee tips and strategies for healthier living. (Photo courtesy of Jay Madden) Specialties and qualifications of a cardiologist Cardiology is a field of medicine that specializes in the health of the heart, as well as the rest of the cardiovascular system. Most patients who go to cardiologists are having a problem with their heart. For instance, they may have an illness, disorder, injury or defect that prevents their heart from functioning properly. One of the most common ailments that a cardiologist treats is heart attacks. Some other heart problems include cardiac arrhythmias, genetic heart abnormalities, injuries to the heart, congestive heart failure and aortic stenosis (narrowing of the vessel).

A cardiologist also treats disorders and illnesses that affect the rest of the cardiovascular system, including the extensive network of blood vessels, veins and arteries that permeate the body. Cardiologists help patients keep their cardiovascular systems as healthy as possible and work to help prevent cardiac problems. Doctors specializing in nuclear cardiology may inject dyes to measure and evaluate how well blood is flowing within the arteries. During the procedure, doctors can locate plaque deposits, collect blood samples and assess the functioning ability of the heart's chambers and valves to see if there are blockages or narrowing of the arteries. Cardiac electrophysiology focuses on studying and treating the heart's electrical activity, and echocardiography takes a moving sonogram of your heart's activity. Becoming a cardiologist requires years of education and extensive specialized training. A cardiologist must complete general medical school, in addition to training in internal medicine and cardiology, which often adds up to ten or more years of education. A cardiologist also must complete an internal medicine residency and a cardiovascular fellowship training residency. The last step toward becoming certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine as a cardiologist is passing the cardiovascular disease certification examination.

Related Article Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, but what you eat can make a difference. Get started on your heart healthy diet and lifestyle with these five tips. Seeing a cardiologist Unless you have an emergency, your first visit with a cardiologist is often a consultation. The doctor will go over your medical history and your family's medical history. He or she will also perform a complete physical health screening, checking your weight, height, blood pressure and lungs. A cardiologist also will discuss any symptoms with you. In most cases, he or she will order additional diagnostic tests, which may include internal imaging tests, blood tests and electronic heart monitoring. A cardiologist then will discuss treatment options after diagnosing the problem. Treatments will vary depending on the type and severity of the problem. Minor problems, such as high blood pressure, are often treated with nothing more than lifestyle changes and, possibly, medication. These treatments usually involve changes in diet, starting an exercise regimen and reducing stress levels. Medications for lowering blood pressure or thinning the blood may be required as well. More serious problems, such as heart attacks, may require more extensive treatment options, such as surgery.

Depending on the issue, a cardiologist might elect to put in a pacemaker, which is an artificial heartbeat regulator. More complicated heart surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass surgery, usually need the expertise of a heart surgeon . Coronary angioplasty and stent placement are two common procedures that a cardiologist may choose. A cardiologist will often treat emergency heart problems, such as heart attacks and heart injuries, often treating the patient in an emergency care center and following up with them for several months after such an occurrence. Choosing a cardiologist Your primary care physician will generally refer you to a cardiologist when he or she suspects you have a problem with your heart or cardiovascular system. Some problems may include chronic high blood pressure and heart disease. Some symptoms may include chest pains, irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, severe heart murmurs, shortness of breath and frequent dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, or suspect a heart problem, you can make an appointment to see a cardiologist on you own, but keep in mind that some insurance plans require a referral from a general doctor. If you know that you'll need the services of an cardiologist, contact your health insurance company to make sure that this medical specialty is covered.

Read through the listing of cardiologist in the provider directory available from your health insurance company. Carefully research the cardiologist you are considering. Verify their qualifications, education and continuing education by consulting Angie's List , where you can also see member reviews and rankings. Related Article Do more medical procedures for patients with stable heart disease amount to better health care? Not necessarily, according to some experts. Learn more about the debate about angioplasty and stents — invasive heart procedures that come with some risk. Pediatric cardiology A pediatric cardiologist diagnoses and treats systemic disorders affecting a child's cardiovascular system, including congenital heart defects, heart muscle disorders, rhythm disturbances and hypertension. These physicians also care for patients who no longer fall into the pediatric age range when an underlying congenital heart defect or other condition requires specialized treatment, such as long QT syndrome, a disorder affecting the electrical system of the heart. LEARN MORE: Angie's List Guide to Pediatric Cardiology Pediatric cardiac surgery Pediatric heart surgeons typically work at children's hospitals, and are prepared to handle the surgical cardiac needs of young patients. That can include rerouting blood flow to the heart, treating aortic valve problems and dealing with other cardiac issues.

LEARN MORE: Angie's List Guide to Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Cardiac surgeons Cardiac surgeons, or heart surgeons, perform procedures for a variety of heart diseases, such as blockage, coronary artery disease, congenital defects and the hardening of arteries. Some of these surgeons specialize in specific procedures or patients. For example, a pediatric heart surgeon usually operates on babies, toddlers and young children or teens. Other surgeons may specialize in procedures such as heart transplants or open heart surgery or pacemakers. Interventional Cardiologists Interventional cardiologists primarily diagnose and treat conditions like coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease. Should a cardiologist diagnose serious conditions that require surgery, like heart damage or blocked arteries, he or she will work with heart surgeons to determine the best course of treatment. After surgery, you'll return to the care of a cardiologist to ensure proper recovery. LEARN MORE: Angie's List Guide to Interventional Cardiologists Vascular surgery A vascular surgeon diagnoses and manages diseases affecting any part of the vascular system, which includes the arteries, veins and lymph glands that run throughout the body.

This type of surgeon does not handle arterial issues affecting the heart or the brain, which are generally reserved for cardiac surgeons and neurosurgeons, respectively. LEARN MORE: Angie's List Guide to Vascular Surgery Thoracic surgery A thoracic surgeon specializes in organs in and near the thorax, including the heart, lungs and esophagus. These surgeons have received specialized training at diagnosing and treating potentially dangerous conditions such as lung cancer and esophageal hernias. What is a Cardiologist? - Texas Heart Institute Who are the Heart Doctors? What is a Cardiologist? Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases or conditions of the heart and blood vessels—the cardiovascular system. You might also visit a cardiologist so you can learn about your risk factors for heart disease and find out what measures you can take for better heart health. Texas Heart Institute cardiologists are listed in the professional staff directory. When you are dealing with a complex health condition like heart disease, it is important that you find the right match between you and your specialist. A diagnosis of heart or vascular disease often begins with your primary care doctor, who then refers you to a cardiologist.

The cardiologist evaluates your symptoms and your medical history and may recommend tests for a more definite diagnosis. Then, your cardiologist decides if your condition can be managed under his or her care using medicines or other available treatments . If your cardiologist decides that you need surgery, he or she refers you to a cardiovascular surgeon , who specializes in operations on the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. You remain under the care of your cardiologist even when you are referred to other specialists. Cardiology is a complex field, so many cardiologists specialize in different areas. All cardiologists are clinical cardiologists who focus on the diagnosis, medical management (use of medicines), and prevention of cardiovascular disease. Some clinical cardiologists specialize in pediatric cardiology, which means they diagnose and treat heart problems in children. When clinical cardiologists treat only adult patients, they specialize in adult cardiology. Other clinical cardiologists may specialize in interventional procedures (balloon angioplasty and stent placement), echocardiography, or electrophysiology. Cardiologists at the Texas Heart Institute research and develop techniques for treating heart and vascular diseases. For more details, see the Summary of Research .

See also on this site: America's Top Cardiologists By narrowing the artery to the point where the flow of blood is greatly reduced By forming blood clots that partially or totally block the artery Types of Angina The three types of angina are stable, unstable, and variant (Prinzmetal's). It is very important to know the differences among the types. Stable angina is the most common type. It occurs when the heart is working harder than usual. There is a regular pattern to stable angina. After several episodes, you learn to recognize the pattern and can predict when it will occur. The pain usually goes away in a few minutes after you rest or take your angina medicine. Stable angina is not a heart attack but makes it more likely that you will have a heart attack in the future. Physical exertion is the most common cause of pain and discomfort from stable angina. Severely narrowed arteries may allow enough blood to reach the heart when the demand for oxygen is low (such as when you are sitting). But with exertion, like walking up a hill or climbing stairs, the heart works harder and needs more oxygen.

Other causes include: Do a physical exam Ask about your symptoms Ask about your risk factors and your family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) or other heart disease Sometimes, your doctor can diagnose angina by noting your symptoms and how they occur. Your doctor may order one or more tests to help make a diagnosis of angina. The tests your doctor may order include: EKG (electrocardiogram). This test measures the rate and regularity of your heartbeat. Some people with angina have a normal EKG. Stress Test. Some heart problems are easier to diagnose when your heart is working harder and beating faster than when it's at rest. During stress testing, you exercise (or are given medicine if you are unable to exercise) to make your heart work harder and beat faster while heart tests are performed. During exercise stress testing, your blood pressure and EKG readings are monitored while you walk or run on a treadmill or pedal a bicycle. Other heart tests, such as nuclear heart scanning or echocardiography, also can be done at the same time. These would be ordered if your doctor needs more information than the exercise stress test can provide about how well your heart is working.

If you are unable to exercise, a medicine can be injected through an intravenous line (IV) into your bloodstream to make your heart work harder and beat faster, as if you are exercising on a treadmill or bicycle. Nuclear heart scanning or echocardiography is then usually done. During nuclear heart scanning, radioactive tracer is injected into your bloodstream, and a special camera shows the flow of blood through your heart and arteries. Echocardiography uses sound waves to show blood flow through the chambers and valves of your heart and to show the strength of your heart muscle. Your doctor also may order two newer tests along with stress testing if more information is needed about how well your heart works. These new tests are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning of the heart. MRI shows detailed images of the structures and beating of your heart, which may help your doctor better assess if parts of your heart are weak or damaged. PET scanning shows the level of chemical activity in different areas of your heart. This can help your doctor determine if enough blood is flowing to the areas of your heart. A PET scan can show decreased blood flow caused by disease or damaged muscles that may not be detected by other scanning methods. Chest x ray.

A chest x ray takes a picture of the organs and structures inside your chest. These include your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Nuclear heart scan. This test provides your doctor with moving pictures of the blood passing through your heart's chambers and arteries and shows the level of blood flood to the heart muscle. A small amount of a radioactive tracer is injected into your bloodstream through a vein, usually in your arm. A special camera is placed in front of your chest to show where the tracer lights up in healthy heart muscle and where it doesn't light up (in heart muscle that has been damaged or has a blocked artery). There are different types of nuclear heart scans. Most scans have two phasesï¿½taking pictures of the heart at rest and while it is beating faster (called a stress test), although sometimes only a rest scan is done. Many heart problems show up more clearly when your heart is stressed than when it is at rest. By comparing the nuclear heart scan of your heart at rest to your heart at "stress," your doctor can determine if your heart is functioning normally or not. Echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to create a moving picture of your heart.

Echocardiogram provides information about the size and shape of your heart and how well your heart chambers and valves are functioning. The test also can identify areas of poor blood flow to the heart, areas of heart muscle that are not contracting normally, and previous injury to the heart muscle caused by poor blood flow. There are several different types of echocardiograms, including a stress echocardiogram. During this test, an echocardiogram is done both before and after your heart is stressed either by having you exercise or by injecting a medicine into your bloodstream that makes your heart beat faster and work harder. A stress echocardiogram is usually done to find out if you have decreased blood flow to your heart (coronary artery disease). Cardiac catheterization. A thin flexible tube (catheter) is passed through an artery in the groin (upper leg) or arm to reach the coronary arteries. Your doctor can determine pressure and blood flow in the heart's chambers, collect blood samples from the heart, and examine the arteries of the heart by x ray. Coronary Angiography. This test is done during cardiac catheterization. A dye that can be seen by x ray is injected through the catheter into the coronary arteries.

Your doctor can see the flow of blood through your heart and the location of blockages. Your doctor may also order blood tests, such as: The signs and symptoms of a heart attack Instructions for the prompt use of aspirin and nitroglycerin How to access emergency medical services in your community The location of the nearest hospital that offers 24-hour emergency heart care Be sure to discuss your emergency plan with your family members. Take action quickly if your chest pain becomes severe, lasts longer, or is not relieved by rest or medicine. Sometimes, it may be difficult to tell the difference between unstable angina and a heart attack. Most heart attack victims wait 2 hours or more after their symptoms begin before they seek medical help. This delay can result in death or lasting heart damage. Key Points Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle does not get enough blood. Angina may feel like pressure or a squeezing pain in your chest. The pain may also occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Most people with angina have coronary artery disease, with narrowed arteries due to atherosclerosis. When arteries are narrowed, blood flow to the heart is reduced.

More than 6 million people in the United States have angina. The most common types of angina are stable angina and unstable angina. A less common type of angina is called variant angina. Stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart is working harder than usual. Pain from stable angina goes away when you rest or take your angina medicine. Angina medicine, such as nitroglycerin, helps widen and relax the arteries so that more blood can flow to the heart. Unstable angina is a very dangerous condition that requires emergency treatment. Unstable angina is a sign that a heart attack could occur soon. Unstable angina can occur without physical exertion. It is not relieved by rest or medicine. Variant angina is caused by a spasm in a coronary artery. The spasm causes the walls of the artery to tighten. This narrowing of the artery slows or stops blood flow to the heart. Doctors diagnose angina based on your health history, your familyï¿½s health history, a physical exam, and the results of various tests. Angina is usually treated with medicines such as nitrates (nitroglycerin).

People with angina may need to take other medicines to lower their blood pressure or cholesterol. They also may take medicine to prevent blood clots. To prevent and treat angina, it is important to make changes to improve your health. Get regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, don't smoke, and eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. A cardiac rehab program can be helpful for many people with angina. When medicines and lifestyle changes do not control angina, special procedures may be needed. Angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery are two common procedures used to treat angina. If you have angina, it is important to know the pattern of your angina, about your medicine, how to control your angina, and the limits on your physical activity. You should know how and when to seek medical help. Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Recent advances in surgical techniques and equipment allow surgeons to perform Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in a less traumatic way. Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Surgery is also called Limited Access Coronary Artery Surgery. It is as an alternative to the standard methods of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery.

Unlike conventional surgery, which utilizes a 10-12" incision and requires the patient to be placed on the heart-lung machine, new minimally invasive surgery may avoid placing the patient on the machine, and can be performed through a 3-5" incision placed between the ribs, or may be done with several small incisions. Like conventional surgery, the surgery is done to reroute, or bypass, blood around coronary arteries clogged by fatty buildups of plaque and improve the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypassï¿½also called MIDCABï¿½is used to avoid the heart-lung machine. It's done while your heart is still beating and is intended for use when only one or two arteries will be bypassed. MIDCAB uses a combination of small holes, or ports, in your chest and a small incision made directly over the coronary artery to be bypassed. The heart surgeon usually detaches an artery from inside the chest wall and re-attaches it to the clogged coronary artery farthest from the occlusion.

The surgeon views and performs the attachment directly, so the artery to be bypassed must be right under the incision. Minimally Invasive Bypass Surgery has the same beneficial results as conventional bypass surgery. It restores adequate blood flow and normal delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the heart. This type of surgery has additional advantages, including the ability of the surgeon to work on a beating heart or through smaller incisions. The procedure is performed in only two to three hours, compared to three to six hours for a traditional bypass. The recovery time is dramatically reduced from months to days or a week. Complications associated with the heart-lung machine are avoided. Due to less time under anesthesia, patients are moved out of intensive care more quickly. Patients tend to experience less pain and discomfort. There is a 25-40% savings of the cost of conventional surgery. Lower infection rate: A smaller incision means less exposure and handling of tissue, which may reduce the chances of infection. This surgery is available to more patients. Many patients are poor candidates for traditional bypass surgery because their illness is too widespread or their heart is too weak. Some patients are able to receive this life-saving surgery through minimally invasive techniques.

Risks Performing surgery on a beating heart is more difficult than working on a heart that has been stopped with the help of the heart-lung machine. In addition, the stress on the heart during the procedure may lead to more heart muscle damage, lower blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and potential brain injury if blood flow to the brain is reduced for too long during surgery. In some casesï¿½usually less than 10 percentï¿½it is necessary to convert to conventional methods on an emergency basis. Weight Control Weight control is an important part of our culture. We are reminded daily in our society that being overweight is not "in" or fashionable. Just look at TV or any type of media advertising and you will soon see that being thin and in good shape is what is popular. Your primary goal should be to have a healthy body. Healthy bodies come in different shapes and sizes. Weight control is just a part of having a healthy body. Other factors include your diet, nutrition and the amount and kind of exercising you are getting. Displayed later on in this chapter is a height/weight chart that will serve as a guideline.

When you see your family doctor, they will check your height, weight, and blood pressure, blood lipids, (cholesterol, triglycerides), and blood sugar (for people with diabetes). All of these involve medical conditions related to weight. Proper weight control and weight management can help provide for a healthy body. Obesity Obesity is basically a medical condition that signifies the excess storage of body fat. It is normal for the body to store fat tissue under the skin and around joints and organs. Fat is essential for good health because it provides energy when the body demands it and provides insulation and protection for vital organs. It is the accumulation of too much fat that poses the health problems of obesity. These health problems include diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart disease and arthritis. The United States has one of the highest percentages of obese adults. It is estimated that over 36% of adults in America are obese. Obesity is most common among minorities, especially minority females. Over 50% of African-American and Mexican-American women are obese. Over 20% of children between the ages of 6 to 17 fit in the obese category. A primary concern of obesity is the risk of developing disease.

Obese people are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure and over 70% of heart disease cases are linked to excess body fat. Obese women are twice as likely to develop breast cancer and 40% more likely to develop colon cancer. Close to 80% of Type II or non-insulin dependent diabetics are obese. Obesity is partially determined by genetic makeup. Research has revealed that basal metabolic rate and the size and number of a person's fat cells help in determining the amount of weight loss that is possible. When calories from food intake equal the amount of energy that the body requires to function the weight remains the same. However, when more calories are consumed than the body needs, the body will store the extra calories, resulting in weight gain. Diet Diets are the most common treatment for obesity. There seem to be countless diets that are promoted and it is recommended that your weight control diet be supervised by a your family doctor. Most health care professionals will recommend a diet that consists of 1200 - 1500 calories per day.

People who are over 40 pounds overweight may require a more aggressive approach and may be put on a restricted diet of 500 to 800 calories per day. There many types of weight loss medications on the market today but there are also many side effects that include insomnia, anxiety and irritability. Your family doctor can evaluate your particular condition, health issues and can recommend weight-loss medications under the right circumstances. Used correctly, they can be very effective in the treatment of overweight people. Exercise Exercise should be an important part of your weight management plan. Calorie reduction alone is not a complete plan will not result in long-term weight loss. Regular exercise is a long-term plan for continuing weight reduction. Exercise will also improve some of the medical conditions associated with obesity which include high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes. A long-term exercise plan sometimes requires lifestyle and behavior modification, which can be hard for many obese people to accept. Successful weight management plans require strong discipline to control eating urges and to implement exercise plans. New habits need to be learned and many old bad habits need to changed, such as food types consumed and unproductive eating habits. When choosing an exercise program, the person should consult their family doctor.

The exercise program will be designed around the person's work capacity, which will be determined by your doctor. Exercise tests using the treadmill or stationary bicycle are the most common ways to determine and measure work capacity. Once your work capacity has been determined, an exercise program can be recommended. The formula will include what your training heart rate should be and how much intensity should be expended during your workout. An exercise program can be the most important part of your weight management program because it will give you so many other added health benefits. Many studies show a direct correlation between physical fitness and mental achievement. Weight Chart Cardiologist Career Profile - CVTips.com Cardiologist Career Profile As a physician and internist, a cardiologist treats the cardiovascular system and the evaluate and treat patients, from infants to the elderly. Basic Tasks A cardiologist's duties may vary depending on their subspeciality. Cardiologists can specialize in echocardiography, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology and pediatric cardiology. Cardiologists use both invasive and non-invasive techniques to treat cardiovascular problems. Invasive techniques are treatments that break the skin or when an object is inserted into the body, such as a surgery.

An example of an invasive technique in cardiography is cardiac catheterization where a tube is inserted into an artery while a patient undergoes local anesthetic. Non-invasive techniques would include taking a person's pulse and echocardiology, the use of ultrasound for diagnostic purposes. Cardiologists usually spend a portion of their time in hospitals in the cardiac care unit, making rounds, seeing, evaluating and treating patients. They will also usually have their own offices where they treat patients. Some of their time will be spent performing examinations, procedures, and diagnosing and treating conditions. They are responsible for keeping records and providing patient education. They will also be expected to consult with other healthcare professionals, such as cardiac surgeons, as part of their work in the hospital or shared practice, on administrative duties, consulting on patient care and treatment. Work Schedule Most physicians, cardiologists included, work more than sixty hours a week. Cardiologists also often work with patients whose conditions are chronic and possibly life threatening, so they are on call for emergencies, which may necessitate call outs at odd hours. However, there are also cardiology positions in communities that advertise generous vacation time, up to thirteen weeks a year, as well as four day work weeks.

A cardiology researcher may work a regular full-time schedule and will not be placed on call or expected to treat patients at any hour. Salary According to the American Medical Group Association Annual Salary Survey, the average salary for a cardiologist is $398,034 per year. The average starting salary in this field is $292,000. The highest paid region in this field is in the north, with an average annual salary of $405,704. Opportunities Though many cardiologists work with older patients, you can specialize in pediatric cardiology and treat infants, children and adolescents with congenital heart conditions or who have acquired heart disease. Work as a pediatric cardiologist usually requires specializing in pediatric cardiology, accepting an internship in pediatric cardiology or completing a post doctoral fellowship in this field. Cardiologists are also engaged in research and are affiliated with hospitals and medical schools. As researchers, you would select variables that affect specific conditions, measure the effect of the variables or different interventions, or explore the appropriate treatment for cardiovascular conditions. Researchers work with patients, research subjects and other researchers, such as other physicians, exercise specialists, bioengineers, graduate students and post-doctoral researchers.

They collect and analyze data, write papers and make presentations about their research. They may also teach classes at medical schools. There are also opportunities to own your own practice or to become a partner in an established cardiology practice. Some cardiologists will move into positions as the head of cardiology, supervising the work of other cardiologists and cardiac healthcare professionals, in addition to other administrative tasks. You Might Also Like Cardiomyopathy | Cleveland Clinic Share Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Print Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It makes it harder for the heart to fill with blood and to pump blood. Cardiomyopathy is a major cause of heart failure and one of the most common conditions leading to heart transplantation. The condition can also cause abnormal heart rhythms. Cardiomyopathy can affect people of all ages and races. One of the major advances in our understanding of cardiomyopathies is the use of genetic testing. This allows us to identify the specific genetic mutations that lead to the disease and detect mutation carriers even before the disease begins. Advanced imaging techniques also allow to identify problems with the heart muscle and plan the best treatment possible. In addition, new drugs are being developed to treat patients with some forms of cardiomyopathy.

There are two main types of cardiomyopathy: Primary cardiomyopathy – The patient does not have other cardiac conditions that lead to weakened heart muscle. In some cases, cardiomyopathies are inherited and may be passed down to other family members. Secondary cardiomyopathy – Caused by a medical condition (such as hypertension, valve disease, congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease, or toxins/medications). Some of these conditions can be treated, which can prevent the muscle affected. The goal of therapy for patients with secondary cardiomyopathy is to identify and correct the medical condition(s) that are responsible for the condition. Coronary artery disease is a common and potentially reversible cause of cardiomyopathy. Ischemia means that an area of the body isn’t getting enough blood, often because there is a problem with the blood vessels. So, cardiomyopathy is often broken down into two categories, ischemic and non-ischemic, depending on whether coronary artery disease is causing the condition. Ischemic cardiomyopathy is caused by coronary artery disease and heart attacks. The heart muscle becomes damaged due to blockages in the coronary arteries (which carry blood to the heart), and it leads to cardiomyopathy.

Click here to learn more about coronary artery disease . Non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. These forms of cardiomyopathy are not related to known coronary artery disease. They are sometimes inherited. There are four types of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy: Definitions of Doctor Specialties | Alta Bates Summit Medical Center | Berkeley - Oakland - San Francisco East Bay Area Main content Definitions of Doctor Specialties The following physician specialties are listed in alphabetical order and reflect the same specialty options listed on the drop-down menu of our Find A Doctor search tool. Visit our search tool to select an Alta Bates Summit doctor if you don't see the specialty you're looking for in this list. A - E | F - L | M - N | O - P | R - Z A - E Addiction Medicine: The branch of medicine that concentrates on helping people overcome repetitive behaviors that can range from drug and alcohol dependency to tobacco use and eating disorders. Learn about our chemical dependency services Allergy & Immunology: The study and treatment of the body's reaction to foreign and non-foreign substances. Ailments treated by an immunologist include hay fever, asthma, hives and other abnormal responses to allergens that range from dust and food to animals and chemicals.

Find an allergist / immunologist Anesthesiology: An anesthesiologist is a physician who specializes in the administration of anesthesia for pain relief, and the care of patients before, during, and after surgery. The anesthesiologist monitors vital organ functions including heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and blood-oxygen saturation during surgery. Anesthesiologists may also provide diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery: Surgery on the stomach and/or intestines to help a person with extreme obesity lose weight. Back to top F - L Family Medicine: Comprehensive medical care with an emphasis on caring for all members of the family. Family medicine builds upon a core of knowledge derived from other disciplines, primarily pediatrics, internal medicine, OB/GYN, geriatrics, surgery and psychiatry. This specialty was formerly known as Family Practice until the certifying board changed the name in 2006. Find a family medicine doctor Gastroenterology: The study and treatment of conditions of the digestive system.

A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats disorders of the stomach, intestines, bowels and other structures, such as the liver, gall bladder, pancreas and esophagus, and focus on maladies that include ulcers, jaundice, colitis, hepatitis and cancer. Back to top O - P Obstetrics and Gynecology: OB/GYN is the field of medicine devoted to conditions specific to women. Obstetrics is the care of a woman during pregnancy and during and after childbirth. Gynecology is the study and care of the female reproductive system. An OB/GYN specialist combines these two disciplines to provide comprehensive care for women. Find an ob / gyn doctor Ophthalmology: The medical specialty devoted to care of the eye and the treatment of diseases that affect eyes and vision. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats abnormalities of the eye and performs surgery on the eye. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and are different from optometrists (who test vision and prescribe corrective lenses) and opticians (who make or sell corrective eyewear). Find an ophthalmologist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery: The branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries and deformities of the teeth, mouth and jaw.

Specialists in this field are also called dental surgeons. Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery: A physician treating with disease and injury to the jaw and facial bones. Find an orthopedist Orthopedic Surgery: Orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with acute, chronic, traumatic, and overuse injuries and other disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons address most musculoskeletal ailments including arthritis, trauma and congenital deformities using both surgical and non-surgical means. Find an orthopedic surgeon Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, and Throat): A division of medical science that focuses on the ears, nose and throat (ENT). Otolaryngologists diagnose and treat disorders from the shoulders up, with the exception of the eyes and brain. Conditions they may deal with include hearing loss, tonsillitis and nasal obstructions. Find an otolaryngologist Pain Management: Physicians and other pain experts choose from an extensive series of diagnostic tests to precisely identify the source of a patient's pain. Treatment and management possibilities are wide ranging and include physical therapy, behavioral therapy, biofeedback and pain-relieving devices that are implanted under the skin.

Find a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor Plastic Surgery: The repair, restoration, or reconstruction of different parts of the body. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons not only perform elective cosmetic surgery to improve appearance, they also repair and reconstruct the facial features and bodies of patients with conditions caused by burns, injuries, diseases and congenital deformities. Find a plastic surgeon Podiatry: The study, prevention, and treatment of problems of the foot. A podiatrist may prescribe corrective devices and medication, or recommend physical therapy. Podiatrists attend colleges of podiatric medicine and graduates are doctors of podiatric medicine (DPM). Podiatrists with advanced training also do various types of foot surgery. What is a Cardiologist? What is a Cardiologist? What is a Cardiologist? A cardiologist is a doctor with special training and skill in finding, treating and preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels. What is an F.A.C.C.? An F.A.C.C. is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Based on their outstanding credentials, achievements, and community contribution to cardiovascular medicine, physicians who are elected to fellowship can use F.A.C.C., Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, as a professional designation.

The strongest evidence of achievement for those who earn the F.A.C.C insignia comes from their peers. Letters of sponsorship from other F.A.C.C.s and medical school faculty attest to professional competence and commitment to excellence, and are necessary for election to Fellowship in the College. When accepting election to Fellowship in ACC, each physician pledges, "cooperation and loyalty to the attainment of the ideals" of the College, the most important of which is to promote excellence in cardiovascular care. Each year at ACC's Annual Scientific Session, newly appointed Fellows take part in the convocation ceremony honoring their new rank as F.A.C.C. and reaffirming the commitment to furthering optimal cardiovascular care. New Fellows receive their certificate of Fellowship and are officially recognized as Fellows of the College at the convocation ceremony. How are Cardiologists Trained? Cardiologists receive extensive education, including four years of medical school and three years of training in general internal medicine. After this, a cardiologist spends three or more years in specialized training. That’s ten or more years of training! How Does a Cardiologist Become Certified?

In order to become certified, doctors who have completed a minimum of ten years of clinical and educational preparation must pass a rigorous two-day exam given by the American Board of Internal Medicine. This exam tests not only their knowledge and judgment, but also their ability to provide superior care. When Would I See a Cardiologist? If your general medical doctor feels that you might have a significant heart or related condition, he or she will often call on a cardiologist for help. Symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pains, or dizzy spells often require special testing. Sometimes heart murmurs or ECG changes need the evaluation of a cardiologist. Cardiologists help victims of heart disease return to a full and useful life and also counsel patients about the risks and prevention of heart disease. Most importantly, cardiologists are involved in the treatment of heart attacks, heart failure, and serious heart rhythm disturbances. Their skills and training are required whenever decisions are made about procedures such as cardiac catheterization, balloon angioplasty, or heart surgery. What Does a Cardiologist Do?

Whether the cardiologist sees you in the office or in the hospital, he or she will review your medical history and perform a physical examination which may include checking your blood pressure, weight, heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Some problems may be diagnosed by your symptoms and the doctor’s findings when you are examined. You may need additional tests such as an ECG, x-ray, or blood test. Other problems will require more specialized testing. Your cardiologist may recommend lifestyle changes or medicine. Each patient’s case is unique. Via our Patient Stories videos, you can experience real-life stories of heart patients, and how they have worked closely with their cardiologists, families and health care team to achieve the best heart health possible. What Kinds of Tests May the Cardiologist Recommend or Perform? Examples include:

Question: What part of the body would a cardiologist specialise in
Answer: Heart